Nature Stone

Granite

Natural stones are categorized into three groups known

as igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.

Granite falls into a group of igneous rocks, which are

compromised of about 45-66% of quartz making it hard

and durable in nature – perfect choice for kitchen

countertops.

Other minerals that make up igneous rocks are feldspar,

mica and iron ores.

Granite is derived from quarries that are located

at the rock beds formed over millions of years from

the some of the same minerals that formed the body

of Earth. At one time those minerals were hot

but as they cooled down they condensed to a solid

core forming the Earth.

In the formation process, as the Earth's crust was

developing through pressure it began pushing

heavy minerals down to the core of the Earth.

The crust grew thicker and squeezed around the

inner core of the Earth creating intense pressure

and heat, resulting in the release of mineral

vapors. These vapors in turn caused crystals

and other solid forms to grow. With the expansion

of crust, these solid minerals were forced up

to the Earth's surface. Thus were formed these

same rock beds that are now used as quarries

for granite. Granite is the most abundant igneous

rock found on earth.

At the quarries, the stone is cut into huge blocks,

and then into required thickness, usually with one

surface honed or polished. Tiles and panels are cut

to size in factories, and then packed for further shipment

to stone retailers all over the world.

Natural stones such as marble and granite come from

quarries found all over the world. Some of the most popular

stones come from such countries as Italy, Spain, Turkey,

United States, Mexico, China, Taiwan, India, Greece,

Canada, France, and Brazil.